Bahrain highlights youth empowerment at UN summit

New York, Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, participated as a keynote speaker at the Summit of the Future Action Day, #Youthlead for the Future, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The event, organised by the UN Youth Office, included a session titled "Intergenerational Solidarity and Equity for a Shared Future." Tawfiqi emphasised Bahrain's strong trust in its youth, noting the kingdom's commitment to empowering young people across various sectors, recognising their pivotal role in shaping the future. She explained that Bahrain has formalised its approach to youth engagement through pioneering initiatives that enhance their global competitiveness and develop their capabilities. These efforts align with the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who views youth as the country's true wealth and emphasises investing in their potential. The government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, also gi ves priority to youth empowerment as a key element driving sustainable development. In her remarks, Tawfiqi reflected on Bahrain's longstanding focus on youth development, noting that the kingdom institutionalised youth work nearly 50 years ago with the establishment of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports in 1975. This milestone shaped Bahrain's data driven strategic approach to youth participation and development, guided by principles of commitment to the present and hope for the future. The minister highlighted Bahrain's efforts to enhance youth competitiveness, foster confidence, and support the realisation of their potential. National initiatives have created a environment in which youth feel supported, heard, and encouraged to participate actively. The Ministry of Youth Affairs plays a key role in identifying and nurturing young Bahraini talent, focusing on creativity and innovation. Tawfiqi provided examples of Bahrain's support for the youth sector, such as policy changes that lowered the minim um age for business ownership to 18 and enabled young people to lead community associations. She also mentioned the establishment of a national committee to oversee youth policies in both the public and private sectors. The Ministry has shifted its role from direct programme delivery to regulation and oversight, supporting national youth institutions. Key programmes focus on outstanding youth, experiential learning, and global exchange opportunities, she said. Continuous training remains an essential part of Bahrain's youth development strategy, she noted.